Category: Smile

  • 5 simple ways to enjoy a fun, safe family vacation

    By Joyce Wilson Family vacations during school breaks are always something to look forward to and can still be enjoyed even in the era of COVID-19. Thankfully, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advise domestic travel is safe for fully vaccinated individuals who wear a mask in public. If…

  • 10 times my kid’s outfits were better than anything at the Met Gala

    The annual Met Gala is the place for high society to see and be seen in the most glamorous, avant garde and jaw-dropping fashion. From models to movie stars to even politicians, anyone who is anyone was on the red carpet at the event of the fall. Scrolling through this…

  • A tribute to my siblings on “Aunt and Uncle’s Day”

    My children are fortunate to have a strong bond with their extended family. Though we often go too long without seeing them in person, I am grateful, in particular, with the connection my kids have forged with my brother and sister. Affectionately known by the Hebrew words for aunt and…

  • Small-town, seaside charm abounds in Cape May, N.J.

    A few days after our family trip to Cape May, N.J., I can still smell the salty, sea air and feel the cool, ocean breeze on my skin. I am no stranger to the beach; I grew up in Queens, within an hour’s drive of Long Island’s popular shores, took…

  • Super simple pizza lunch/snack hack

    I have two school-age kids who bring their lunches from home. Though I am far from the healthiest parent, I do try to give my children a variety of foods, and, when possible, pack them items that are homemade. Still, those prepackaged kid lunch options you find in the supermarket…

  • What hiking taught me about the human spirit

    I am blessed with the good fortune to live near some incredible hiking trails, including a large section of the Appalachian trail. I love the peace and quiet I find while hiking, especially in the fall and winter when the trails are less populated. I find being alone on the…

  • LEGOLAND New York brings thrills to the Hudson Valley

    My family has called the New York Hudson Valley home for nearly six years, and the longer we are here, the more we fall in love with all the wonderful treasures this area has to offer. From breathtaking views atop scenic mountain trails to delicious farm-to-table food, this region is…

  • Latin-Grammy winners, 123 Andrés turn hit song “Ten Little Birds/Diez Pajaritos” into dual-language board book for young learners

    Learning a new language is fun for all ages, and even really young children can benefit from exposure to languages outside their native tongue. 123 Andrés, the award-winning musical duo, has put their incredible talent for introducing youngsters to Spanish into a brand new board book, Ten Little Birds/Diez Pajaritos.…

  • How To Celebrate Lag B’Omer

    Lag B’Omer is a lesser-known Jewish celebration, which commerorates the 33rd day of the Omer, or time between the Jews leaving Egypt and their receiving of the Torah 40 days later. So, what’s so special about the 33rd day, and why do we honor this occasion? The answer depends on…

  • How to engage kids in chores, from a mom who despises cleaning

    From extra allowance to special gifts, there are plenty of ideas for encouraging kids to help out around the house. While those techniques may work for many families — and I encourage you to do what’s best for yours — I have found other approaches work best for my own…